Distillation apparatus

ABSTRACT

A fluid distillation apparatus is removably built into a object cleaning apparatus which comprises a duty tank for retaining contaminated fluid, a receiving tank for receiving the distilled fluid from the distillation apparatus and a sink means in which the objects are cleaned. The fluid distillation apparatus comprises at least one each of a fluid inlet port through which the fluid to be distilled is transferred from a container containing the fluid to be distilled to distillation chamber, a fluid outlet port through which the distilled fluid is transferred to a container to hold the distilled fluid, an air supply port to which compressed air supply is to be connected, a power cord through which the electric power is supplied, preferably an outlet through which air pressure for fluid agitation is supplied to the said container containing the fluid to be distilled, and preferably an outlet through which air pressure is supplied to a pump means for transferring the distilled fluid from the receiving container to the duty fluid container. The fluid distillation apparatus, duty tank, and the receiving tank are built into the object cleaning apparatus in such way that any one of these components can be easily removed from and re-installed to the object cleaning apparatus.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to fluid distillation apparatus and in particularto fluid distillation apparatus programmed to perform automaticdistillation processes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is known to provide fluid distillation apparatus which is built intoa object cleaning apparatus comprising a duty tank for retaining acontaminated fluid, a receiving tank for accepting a distilled fluidfrom the fluid distillation apparatus and a sink means in which objectsare cleaned. Typically, the built-in fluid distillation apparatus, theduty tank, or the receiving tank is not easily separable and replaceablefrom the object cleaning apparatus. Typically the built-in distillationapparatus is for a batch distillation process and is not capable ofautomatically repeating the distillation process.

The built-in distillation apparatus typically does not employelectrically actuated (intrinsically safe) solenoid valves to controlpneumatic devices required for automatic distillation operations.

The built-in distillation apparatus is designed to drain waste debrismanually and does not employ pneumatically actuated valve forautomatically draining waste debris from the distillation chamber.

Typically, the built-in distillation apparatus is constructed for useneither in the locations designated by applicable laws to be hazardousnor with any flammable fluid.

Known distillation apparatus are often monitored to ensure that theyoperate within desired parameters of pressure, fluid level andtemperature in the tanks and conduits between said tanks, however, onceabnormalities are detected, no error messages are displayed and manualcorrective action is required in order to restore function withindesired parameters.

It is further known that typical distillation apparatus comprises adistillation tank which is heated indirectly through oil jacket whichsurround the distillation tank, thereby causing a need to periodicallychange said oil.

It is further known that typical distillation apparatus are not capableof distilling a mixture of fluids and automatically separating thedistilled fluids to more than one receiving container.

It is further known that typical distillation apparatus are not equippedwith a means capable of one-way or two-way communication with any remotedevices such as remote alarm apparatus, remote fire extinguisher, remotediagnostic apparatus.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide an improved fluiddistillation apparatus and components thereof.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention a fluid distillationapparatus is removably built into a object cleaning apparatus whichfurther comprises a duty tank for retaining contaminated fluid, areceiving tank for receiving the distilled fluid from the distillationapparatus and a sink means in which the objects are cleaned.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention a fluiddistillation apparatus comprises at least one each of a fluid inlet portthrough which the fluid to be distilled is transferred from a containercontaining the fluid to be distilled to distillation chamber, a fluidoutlet port through which the distilled fluid is transferred to acontainer to hold the distilled fluid, an air supply port to whichcompressed air supply is to be connected, a power cord through which theelectric power is supplied, preferably an outlet through which airpressure for fluid agitation is supplied to the said containercontaining the fluid to be distilled, and preferably an outlet throughwhich air pressure is supplied to a pump means for transferring thedistilled fluid from the receiving container to the duty fluidcontainer.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention a fluiddistillation apparatus, the duty tank, and the receiving tank are builtinto the object cleaning apparatus in such way that any one of saidthree components can be removed from and re-installed to the objectcleaning apparatus easily and within a short period of time.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention a fluiddistillation apparatus is programmed to automatically repeat a fluiddistillation process consisting of a filling cycle in which distillationchamber is filled with the fluid to be distilled, a boiling cycle inwhich the fluid is evaporated and cooled, and a debris drain cycle inwhich the waste debris is drained.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention there is provided a fluiddistillation apparatus which may be adapted to be used with an objectcleaning apparatus.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention there is further provideda fluid distillation apparatus comprising a distillation chamber, afluid inlet port in communication by conduit means with the duty tank, adebris container for accumulating debris from the distillation chamber,a fluid outlet port in communication by conduit means with the receivingtank for receiving distilled fluid, the receiving tank itself being incommunication by conduit means with the duty tank. Pumps are operativelyconnected to the conduit means to draw fluid between tanks. The fluiddistillation apparatus (also referred to as an object cleaningapparatus), such that contaminated fluid may be fed from the objectcleaning apparatus to the duty tank, where the contaminated fluid may berun through a recycler distillation program which acts to clean thefluid. Distilled fluid may then be fed back to the object cleaningapparatus for further use. Furthermore, the entirety of the fluiddistillation apparatus may be removed from its retaining cabinet and orconnection with a object cleaning apparatus as desired.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is provideda fluid distillation apparatus programmed to repeat a distillation cyclefor a set amount of fluid to be distilled or for a set number ofdistillation cycles.

The fluid distillation apparatus program uses fluid level andtemperature sensors and preferably a pressure sensor positioned todetect conditions within the tanks and conduit means, to activate ordeactivate transfer pumps which are operatively connected to the conduitmeans between the tanks which draw fluid between tanks. Heating meansand cooling means are provided which regulate the temperature of thedistillation chamber. The fluid distillation apparatus is programmed tointerrupt the cycle in the event of detection of abnormalities intemperature, fluid level and preferably pressure by the respectivesensors.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is providedan automatically repeating distillation process of a fluid to bedistilled, the process comprising the steps not necessarily in samesequence of: optionally agitating the fluid to be distilled,transferring the said fluid into a distillation chamber from a tankcontaining the said fluid, distilling the said fluid in the distillationchamber while transferring the distilled fluid to a receiving container,optionally cooling the distillation chamber to the pre-determinedtemperature, draining waste debris from the distillation chamber into adebris container by opening a debris drain valve, optionallytransferring the distilled fluid from the receiving tank to the dutytank or other preferred tank, and repeating these steps until the fluidhas been completely distilled, or the pre-set number of times or volumeof the fluid has been reached, or an abnormality is detected by thecontinuous self diagnostic apparatus, whichever may occur first, andfinally cooling the distillation chamber and the related components to atemperature appropriate for the next distillation operation.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where a vacuum pump isautomatically activated to create vacuum in the distillation chamberonly when evaporation conditions indicate within a pre-determined periodof time the requirement of vacuum to reduce the boiling point. Thisdesign will prevent the unnecessary use of a vacuum pump as most of thefluids can be distilled without application of vacuum to reduce theboiling point.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where at least one pneumaticdevice is controlled by solenoid valve which is actuated byintrinsically safe electric power and is located outside of theexplosion proof housings as described herein.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the fluiddistillation apparatus employs feature where a heater unit is installedin an explosion proof housing attached directly to the bottom of saiddistillation tank thus improving heating speed and also eliminating needfor oil changes.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where one or more flow boostersare used in conjunction with the said solenoid valves to increase thevolume of air flow that can be controlled by the solenoid valve asdescribed herein.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where a computer board withbuilt-in control switches or with a separate key pad is intrinsicallysafe and located outside of explosion proof housings as describedherein.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where a computer board islocated inside of an explosion proof housing and a separateintrinsically safe key pad is located outside of the explosion proofhousings as described herein.

Preferably the fluid distillation apparatus employs features where thecomputer board contains one or more microprocessors and one or more LCDor LED display capable of displaying messages or signals as describedherein. Many LED lights may be used to display messages or signals. Forexample, more than two LED lights flash in the pre-determined manners toindicate the error codes.

Preferably the computer board of the fluid distillation apparatusemploys features where the operator can select, language of display,temperature displayed in Centigrade (° C.) or Fahrenheit (° F.), one ormore maximum boiling temperatures, strength of heater power, number ofautomatically repeated cycles, agitation cycle turned on or off, vacuumdistillation turned on or off, desired starting date and time. In caseof the fluid distillation apparatus to produce more than one distilledproduct which is discussed herein later, more than one maximum boilingtemperature and heater power strength can be selected for eachdistillation cycle. Preferably the computer board is provided with oneor more terminals to accept digital or analog input signals as describedherein. Preferably the computer board is provided with one or moreterminals to send out digital or analog output signals as describedherein

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus is explosion proof and includes features whichimprove the safe operation of the fluid distillation apparatus such asan auto repeating fluid distillation apparatus described herein.

The fluid distillation apparatus employs features where one of theexplosion proof housings contains more than one component such as apower control board, a non-explosion proof fan motor, a magneticinterference filter unit, a re-settable safety switch, etc. as describedherein.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where one of the explosion proofhousings contains one or more heater elements, one or more thermostatsand connector terminals as described herein.

Such thermostat(s) may be a non re-settable type(s) or re-settabletype(s) which may be re-set from the outside of the explosion proofhousing as described herein.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where all outlets of theexplosion proof housing are provided with a sealed connection means,which functions as fume and flame barrier as will be described herein.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where the explosion proofhousing containing a heater element is connected to another explosionproof housing containing a fan motor and a power control board by meansof explosion proof connector(s) and fitting(s).

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where the power control board islocated inside the explosion proof housing and has more than oneintrinsically safe barrier to supply the intrinsically safe power toelectric components located outside of the explosion proof housing asdescribed herein.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus employs features where the power control boardcontains one or more intrinsically safe fuses which are attached to thepower board by a permanent means such as soldering and can not bereplaced easily or by a removable method such as fuse holders.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus may employ both electricity and the compressedair as a source of energy for the function of the fluid distillationapparatus as described herein.

In accordance with yet a further aspect of the invention, an outersafety cover is provided over the lid of a distillation chamber of theinvention so that hot liquid accidentally leaking or splashing out fromthe distillation chamber may be contained. Such safety cover may includelarge holes in its rear to release any accumulated pressure. The covermay cover the distillation chamber or the entirety of the fluiddistillation apparatus assembly unit. In accordance with yet a furtheraspect of the invention, an outer safety cover is provided withautomatic locking means to prevent the outer safety cover from beingopened during operation of the distillation cycle.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided adistillation chamber for use with an auto repeating fluid distillationapparatus, the tank being of unique construction having means to improvethe heat conductivity of the tank. An embodiment of the distillationchamber, which is a double shell tank, filled with a heat conductivematerial is described and illustrated below.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided adistillation chamber, for use with an auto repeating fluid distillationapparatus, which has a drain hole in the bottom and the bottom ispreferably sloped toward the center to improve draining of the debris.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided adistillation chamber for use with fluid distillation apparatus and inparticular an auto repeating fluid distillation apparatus, the tankhaving improved means to remove accumulated debris from the tank. Thisfeature may be used in the auto-repeating recycler of this invention butis also useful Where the debris is not liquid and must be removedmanually. This design may be used in a fluid distillation apparatuswhich is not automatically repeating or which automatically repeats thedistillation cycle up to two or three times only. If it is repeating 3cycles, the boiling temperature is lowered by 20 to 30° C. during thefirst two cycles so that the debris still contains some fluid and doesnot solidify. In the last cycle, the temperature is raised andadditional heating time is provided to help solidify the debris and thusease the removal of said debris.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is providedthe means to monitor the level of fluid in a distillation chambercomprising a differential pressure sensor, being connected to thedistillation chamber or the lid of the distillation chamber, capable ofdetecting difference of air pressure between two level monitor tubes,one of which is dipped into the fluid in the distillation chamber as isdescribed herein below.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is providedthe means to monitor the level of fluid in a distillation chamber andpreferably in other fluid containers, comprising a magnet attached to astem of a float ball and a lead switch for detecting the magnetism.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is providedmeans to monitor the level of fluid in a debris container and in acontainer receiving distilled fluid from the distillation chamber.Although electric pressure sensors are used in the example, a float typeor many other types of level sensors may be used.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is providedmeans to continuously monitor the pressure of compressed air supplied toa fluid distillation apparatus. There is provided means to continuouslymonitor the positive and negative pressure at the inside of adistillation chamber and the vapor passages. Preferably theautomatically repeating fluid distillation apparatus employs athermostat or a thermocouple attached to the condenser to detectoverheating.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention an automaticallyrepeating fluid distillation apparatus employs a vapor sensor positionednear the distillation chamber to detect vapor leakage.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, an automaticallyrepeating fluid distillation apparatus may be programmed to produceseparately distilled products with different boiling points from oneoriginal fluid mixture.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a fluiddistillation apparatus comprises a means for enabling one-way or two-waycommunication with one or more a remote apparatus such as a remote fireextinguishing apparatus, a remote diagnostic apparatus, a remote alarmapparatus preferably with auto. phone dialing capability, etc.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention provided is anobject cleaning apparatus comprising in modular construction: a fluiddistillation apparatus as described herein, a cleaning sink having atleast one opening at bottom; a base cabinet having at least one opening;a duty fluid tank for holding fluid used for cleaning object(s); a cleanfluid tank for holding distilled fluid; a means for cleaning object(s)comprising at least a brush, a spigot, a means for applying fluid ontoobject(s) or fluid flow line, a means for controlling fluid flow to saidmeans for cleaning object(s); a pump means for transferring distilledfluid to duty fluid tank; a means for transferring fluid from duty cyclefluid container to said means for cleaning object(s), a fluid flow linebetween said duty fluid tank and fluid inlet port of said fluiddistillation apparatus; and a fluid flow line between said clean fluidcontainer and fluid outlet port of said fluid distillation apparatus.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention provided is anautomatic object cleaning apparatus with a built-in fluid distillationapparatus as described herein comprises in modular construction, a fluiddistillation apparatus; a cleaning chamber for holding objects to becleaned, having at least one opening through which said objects aremoved into and out of said cleaning chamber; a means for closing (andopening) said opening comprising at least one door, a means for movingsaid objects within said cleaning chamber in horizontal, vertical,rotational direction in predetermined manner (and for predeterminedlength of time); a means for automatically cleaning objects inside saidcleaning chamber by forcing movement of either one or both of saidobjects or fluid which is heated or not heated; a duty fluid tank forcontaining fluid used for cleaning object(s); a means for transferringsaid fluid from said duty fluid tank to said means for automaticallycleaning objects; a clean fluid container for holding distilled fluid; ameans for transferring distilled fluid from said clean fluid containerto said duty cycle fluid container; a fluid flow line between said dutycycle container and fluid inlet port of said fluid distillationapparatus; a fluid flow line between said clean fluid container andfluid outlet port of said fluid distillation apparatus; and a means forcontrolling automatic cleaning and related functions comprising at leastone electric or electronic control device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of an autorepeating fluid distillation apparatus according to the invention, asremovably built-in within an object cleaning apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an embodiment of an auto repeating fluiddistillation apparatus according to the invention, ready to be connectedto external apparatus which generates contaminated fluid;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an embodiment of an auto repeating fluiddistillation apparatus according to the invention, used to separate twoproducts with different boiling points from one original mixture offluids;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an explosion proofhousing of the invention;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the internal components within thehousing of FIG. 4;

FIG. 5 is a schematic representation illustrating four separateapplications of an auto repeating fluid distillation apparatus accordingto the invention;

FIGS. 6A to 6C are illustrations of embodiments of locking mechanismsfor a safety cover for use with a fluid distillation apparatus inaccordance with the invention;

FIGS. 6D to 6E are illustrations of embodiments in accordance with theinvention of a Safety Lid for Use with Fluid distillation apparatus andcomponents thereof;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a distillation chamberin accordance with the invention;

FIG. 7B is a section view of the embodiment of the distillation chamberof FIG. 7A in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 7C is a section view of the embodiment of the distillation chamberof FIG. 7A before distillation;

FIG. 7D is a section view of the embodiment of the distillation chamberof FIG. 7A after distillation;

FIG. 7E is a section view of the embodiment of the distillation chamberof FIG. 7A with debris removed; and

FIG. 8 is an illustration of an embodiment of a double shelldistillation chamber assembly in accordance with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The following description, by way of example, describes and illustrateseach aspect of the invention mentioned above.

Shown in FIG. 1 is an embodiment of a fluid distillation apparatusadapted for use with a manual object cleaning apparatus. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 1, an automatic repeating fluid distillationapparatus 1 is adapted to the Manual Object cleaning apparatus 170. Therecycler and the object cleaning apparatus are preferably electricallyand pneumatically powered, so that the fluid 139 in the Duty tank 140contaminated through the use of the Manual Object cleaning apparatus 170may be automatically distilled by the Fluid distillation apparatus 1when required.

The Fluid distillation apparatus 1 is installed inside the Base Cabinet162 of the Manual Object cleaning apparatus 170 and is connected to thevarious parts of the Manual Object cleaning apparatus 170 at inside ofthe Base Cabinet 162 by means of connectors 105, 106, 107, 108, 109,111, and 113 which are preferably designed to enable easy and quickconnection and disconnection.

This unique modular construction of the Recycling Manual Object cleaningapparatus 170 offers easy access to various components of the Objectcleaning apparatus such as the Receiving Tank 132, the Duty tank 140,the Transfer Pump PM2 128, the Object cleaning apparatus Pump PM3 115,the Pressure Regulator 142 accommodated within the Base Cabinet 162 forthe maintenance and service work. The Automatically repeating fluiddistillation apparatus unit 1 as a whole can also be easily removed orreinstalled for service and maintenance work where required.

An embodiment of a object cleaning apparatus which may be used with thefluid distillation apparatus is shown in FIG. 1. The Manual Objectcleaning apparatus 170 consists of the Lid Assembly 160, the SinkAssembly 161 and the Base Cabinet 162.

The Lid Assembly 160 is attached to the Sink Assembly 161 preferablywith the hinges 159. The Lid Stay 165 includes a fusible link 163attaching the Lid Assembly 160 and the Sink Assembly 161 in such mannerthat the lid assembly 160 may be secured in either the closed positionor an open position. In case of fire in Sink Assembly 161, the FusibleLink 163 is formed of suitable material such that it will melt andtherefore allows the Lid Assembly 160 to close down on the Sink Assembly160 by it's own weight.

The Base Cabinet 162 includes a door or doors to allow easy access toall components such as the Fluid distillation apparatus Unit 1, theReceiving Tank 132, the Duty tank 140, the Transfer Pump PM2 128, theObject cleaning apparatus Pump PM3 115, the Pressure Regulator 142 andall other components accommodated within the Base Cabinet 162.

Preferably Sink Assembly 161 is installed on the top of the base cabinet162 and the bottom of the sink assembly 161 is tapered toward the drainhole to which the Strainer 145 is removably installed to prevent thedebris of larger size from going into the Duty tank 140 through theDrain Pipe 146. The spigot 158 is attached to the end of the Flexibleconduit 157.

Provided is a mechanical timer 118 which when turned on by means of anexternal knob, keeps the Timer Air Valve 117 open for the pre-determinedperiod of time (e.g. 15 minutes) set by the Timer, allowing the WasherPump PM3 115 to draw the fluid 139 from the Duty tank 140 through theSuction Pipe 120 and to feed it to the T-Connector 155 through the fluidsupply Hose 148. The fluid is further supplied to the Flo-through Brush150 or the flexible conduit 157, or both depending on how the FlowControl Valves 152 and 156 are adjusted by their Handles 153 and 154, sothat the Flo-through brush 150 or the Spigot 158, or both may be usedfor the manual washing operation.

The fluid contaminated with grease, oil, dirt, etc. during the manualwashing operation flows back into the Duty tank 140 through the Strainer145 and the Drain Pipe 146.

Preferably the Duty tank 140 is large (typically 20 to 30 galloncapacity) and typically much less than this maximum capacity isutilized. For instance, typically 15 gallons of fluid is used in theDuty tank 140. Using less than the capacity of the tank is preferablybecause the amount of contaminant which enters into the Duty tank 140gradually increases the fluid level in the Duty tank 140. As the levelgoes up, the air inside the tank is pushed out through the Air BreatherHole 26. Debris consisting of small solid particles such as dust, soil,rust, metal chips, etc. which pass through the Strainer 145 tend tosettle in the bottom of the Duty tank 140. However, such debris ispreventing from accumulating in a significant amount given that thefluid distillation apparatus 1 removes the contaminated fluid and thedebris after the agitation cycle as will be described below.

In order to enable easy access to the inside of tanks for cleaningoperation, the Receiving Tank 132 and the Duty tank 140 are providedwith the Removable Lid 130 and 131 respectively.

To further facilitate cleaning of the inside of the Duty tank 140 andremoval of debris, preferably Liner Bag 137 is installed in the Dutytank 140 before fluid is first filled.

Shown in FIG. 2 is an embodiment of the auto-repeating Fluiddistillation apparatus in isolation, designed to automatically repeatthe distillation cycle. This embodiment of the auto repeating Fluiddistillation apparatus is also illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3 being usedin two separate applications, namely with a object cleaning apparatus(as described above) and adapted to produce separately distilledproducts from one source as will be described below. The distillationcycle comprises the following steps:

-   a) a) agitating the contaminated fluid in preparation for the next    phase,-   b) b) transferring the contaminated fluid or liquid from one source    (such as container 140, reservoir, etc,) into the Distillation    chamber 62,-   c) c) distilling the contaminated fluid and returning the distilled    fluid back to the same source or to another container,-   d) d) automatically draining the Debris from the Distillation    chamber 62 into the Debris Container 27, and-   e) e) cooling the Distillation chamber 62 to the degree appropriate    for the next cycle.

The recycler may be programmed to allow the distillation cycle to beautomatically repeated for a certain desired number of cycles, or untilthe desired total volume of the contaminated fluid has been processed oran error condition in the processing has been detected.

With reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, the function and construction of atypical embodiment of the fluid distillation apparatus is furtherexplained as follows. Preferably, electric power is supplied to theFluid distillation apparatus Unit 1 via Power Plug 60 and Power Cord 61.

The compressed air is supplied to the Part Washer 170 through the airinlet fitting 143.

The compressed air is further supplied to the Fluid distillationapparatus 1 by connecting the Air Hose 141 of the Object cleaningapparatus 170 to the Quick Connector 101 of the Fluid distillationapparatus Unit 1 after being adjusted to proper air pressure by thePressure Regulator 142. As soon as the electric power is supplied to theAuto-repeating Fluid distillation apparatus 1, the LCD Display 81 willindicate various information including the phase of operation, such as“Agitation Cycle”, “Tank Filling” “Heating”, “Draining”, “Cooling” etc.together with the current temperature, the set point temperature, Numberof cycle, etc. as well as any error message applicable. For example,during the heating cycle, the LCD Display would show the following threemessages: “Now Heating”, “Cycle 3 of 10” and “T=123C, SP=200C”,alternatively for every 5 seconds. (Note: “T” is the temperature at theHeater Thermo-couple 62 and “SP” is the set point temperature.)

Before starting the distillation operation, various parameters such asthe maximum boiling temperature called “set point”, number of theauto-repeating cycles desired, the preferred language such as English,French, German, Spanish, Japanese, etc. and the Celsius or Fahrenheittemperature to be displayed on the LCD 81, the auto-start time and thedays of week if the scheduled auto-start of operations is desired,turning on/off of the agitation apparatus, and the Vacuum apparatus,etc. must be selected and set up into the Computer Board 82 by means ofthe switches on the Control Panel 80.

Upon pressing the “Start Button” on the Control Panel 80, a selfdiagnostic program provided within the Computer Board 82 commenceschecking: the continuity of the circuit of the Heater 2, coolingapparatus including the Fan Motor 34 fitted to inside of the ExplosionProof Housing 31 (which shall be described in further detail below), theHeater Thermocouple 36, the Vapor Tube Thermocouple 70, all SolenoidValves SV1 56, SV2 55, SV3 54, SV4 91, SV5 94, SV6 95, SV7 99, SV8 100and SV9 102, the level of the Distillation chamber 62 (by the LevelSensor LS1 8), the Debris Container 27 (by the Level Sensor Two (LS2)60), the Receiving Tank 132 (by the Level Sensor Three LS3 129), and theDuty Tank 140 by the Level Sensor 4 136.

The self diagnostic program further checks the temperature at the HeaterThermocouple 36, the Heater Thermostat 6, Vapor Tube Thermocouple 70,the Condenser Thermostat 72, existence of the air pressure of thespecified value at the Pressure Sensor 96.

If any abnormality has been detected, the Buzzer 84 will sound and theLCD Display 81 will show error messages urging the possible correctiveaction to be taken.

Unless any abnormality has been detected, the agitation cycle isactivated for a preset pre-determined period of time (e.g. few seconds)by opening the Solenoid Valve SV7 99 and introducing air pressurethrough the Air Hoses 105 and 124 into the bottom of the Duty tank 140which contains the Fluid 139 contaminated as the result of the washingoperation of the Object cleaning apparatus 170. (Note: If a programmedautomatic start operation has been chosen, this process will not startuntil the first schedule start time is reached).

During the next tank filling cycle, the Solenoid Valve SV6 95 is openedand air pressure is supplied, via the Air Flow Booster 92, to the TankFiller Pump PM1 114 which transfers the contaminated fluid 139 from theDuty tank 140 through the Suction Pipe 138, the Fluid Hose 121 and theTank Filler Hose 63 into the Distillation chamber 62. The Tank FillerPump PM1 114 is stopped when the Level Sensor LS1 8 detects full levelof the fluid in tank 62 or after the pre-determined period of time (e.g.5 minutes) whichever occurs first. (Note: The predetermined period oftime may occur first when there may not be enough fluid left in the Dutytank 140 to fill the Distillation chamber 62.)

During operation of the recycler, the pressure inside the distillationchamber 62 tends to vary quite widely from negative values (vacuum) topositive values. As such conventional pressure sensor like LS2 49, LS3129 and LS4 138 cannot be used at the position of Level Sensor LS1 inthe distillation chamber 8. Therefore, the differential pressure sensorwhich detects the difference of the pressure between the Short Tube 5and the Long Tube 6 is employed so that as soon as the fluid level goesup above the low end of the Longer Tube 6 and a small pressure iscreated, the Filler Pump (PM1 114 is turned off.

The next heating cycle is initiated, regardless of whether theDistillation chamber 62 is full or not, when the Power Control Board 48installed inside the Explosion Proof Housing 31 starts supplying powerto the Heater Unit 2 through wires which pass through the SealingFitting 40, the Conduits 32 and 29 and the Heater Terminal Housing 28.

The Fan Motor 34 installed inside the Explosion Proof Housing 31 is alsoturned on at the same time and the Fan Blades 33 start rotating to coolthe Condenser 35. The temperature of the Distillation chamber 62measured by the Heater Thermocouple 36 starts rising. If the temperatureincrease detected by the Heater Thermocouple 36 is less than the setpre-determined value within the predetermined period of time (e.g. 3.Cin 5 minutes), the heating cycle is discontinued and error messageindicating the heater circuit problem will be displayed on the LCD 81.

If the temperature increase detected by the Heater Thermocouple 36 ismore than the pre-determined value within the predetermined period oftime (e.g. 50.C in 5 minutes), the heating cycle is discontinued and anerror message indicating possibility of the absence of fluid or aninsufficient amount of the fluid in the Distillation chamber 62 will bedisplayed on the LCD 81.

If neither of the error conditions is detected, the Heater (2) continuesheating the Fluid and the Solenoid Valve SV5 94 is opened to start theVacuum Pump 79 for distillation under vacuum. The vacuum pump may beturned on only when no evaporation has been detected within thepre-determined period of time (e.g. 30 minutes), as the SP is too lowfor the distillation of the fluid being distilled. This design willprevent the unnecessary use of the vacuum pump as most of the fluids canbe distilled without application of vacuum to reduce the boiling point.The Pressure Sensor 42 continuously monitors the value of the vacuum andif the vacuum falls below the pre-determined value (e.g. 25″ Hg),heating cycle is stopped and an error message indicating theinsufficient vacuum will be shown on the LCD 81.

When a component in the fluid inside the Distillation chamber 62 reachesit's boiling point, the fluid vapor starts flowing through the VaporOutlet Tube 68 into the Condenser 35 where it is liquified to be purefluid without contamination. The fluid flows into the Receiving Tank 132of the Object cleaning apparatus 170 through the Fluid Hoses 78, 83 and125. When the temperature at the Heater Thermo-couple 36 detects thetemperature which is lower by the steps of the pre-determined values(e.g. 9.C, 6.C and 3.C below the set point), the Computer Board 82reduces the heater power by the steps of the pre-determined values (e.g.10%, 20% and 30%).

When the temperature at the Heater Thermo-couple 36 detects the setpoint temperature, the Heater is turned off and turned on again when thetemperature at the Heater Thermo-couple goes down to 1.C below the setpoint temperature. This on and off control of the heater will continueuntil the pre-determined period of time (e.g. 20 minutes) expires oruntil after the Vapor Tube Thermo-couple 70 detects that all fluid inthe Distillation chamber 62 with the boiling point lower than themaximum boiling temperature which was set up initially has beenevaporated.

If the Vapor Tube Thermo-couple does not detect the pre-determinedtemperature within the pre-determined period of time (e.g. 70.C within90 minutes), the heating will stop and an error message indicating “toolow set point” will be displayed on the LCD 81. The completion ofevaporation is detected when the temperature at the Vapor TubeThermocouple 70 exceeds the pre-determined value (e.g. 70.C) and goesdown to below the pre-determined value (e.g. 70.C).) Subsequent to thecompletion of the Heating cycle, the Vacuum Pump 79 is turned off andthe Solenoid Valve SL1 58 is opened to start supplying air pressurethrough the One-way Check Valve 17 into the Distillation chamber 62. Atthe same the Solenoid Valve SL4 91 is also opened to shut off the Valve41. After the pre-determined period of time (e.g. 1 minute) the pressureinside of the Distillation chamber 62 increases and the Solenoid ValveSL3 54 is opened to actuate the Air Cylinder 9 which moves the Handle 23of the Drain Valve 22 to the open position so that the debris remainingat the bottom of the Distillation chamber 62 is drained under a pressureinto the Debris Container 27.

After the pre-determined period of time (e.g. 2 minutes), the Solenoidvalves SV1 56 and SV4 91 are closed at the same time as the SolenoidValve SV3 54 is closed to return the Handle 23 of the Debris Drain Valve22 to the closed position. The Solenoid Valve SV2 55 is then opened tointroduce the flow of compressed air to the Tank Cooling Coil 63 at thepre-determined flow rate (e.g. 5 cfm) controlled by the Orifice 57. Thisfirst cycle is consider to be over when the temperature at HeaterThermo-couple 36 decreases by the pre-determined value (e.g. 20° C.) andautomatically start the second cycle, unless the automatic repeat cyclehas been set to single cycle or any self diagnostic program providedwithin the Computer Board 82 detects any abnormality.

After completion of the pre-set automatic Repeat distillation cycles,the receiving Tank 132, the Solenoid Valve SV8 100 is opened and theTransfer Pump PM2 126 transfers all fluid from the Receiving Tank 132 tothe Duty tank 140. The Fan Blades 33 stays on until the temperature atthe Heater Thermo-couple 36 goes down to the pre-determined value (e.g.60° C.).

The Solenoid Valve SV9 102 is provided for the automatic switching ofthe 3-way valve in order to separate two distilled products as will beexplained below. Refer to FIG. 3 illustrated below. This feature is notutilized in the application with the Recycling Object cleaning apparatus170 shown in FIG. 1.

Shown in FIG. 3 is an embodiment of an auto-repeating Cycle Fluiddistillation apparatus used for a two product output. In this example,the auto-repeating cycle fluid distillation apparatus unit 1 is adaptedto produce two separate distilled products with different boiling pointfrom one original liquid. In this version of the Auto-repeating Fluiddistillation apparatus 1, two set up point temperatures can beprogrammed during the set up mode so that the distilled product may besegregated to two separate product with different boiling point asexplained below.

In this example, the contaminated anti-freeze solution (typicallycomprised of water and ethylene glycol) which is commonly used inautomobiles is distilled and separated into water, ethylene glycol andits contaminants or debris. The two set point temperatures are 110° C.and 200° C. of for this application as the boiling point of water is100° C. and that of the Ethylene Glycol is about 180° C. The set pointtemperature should be set slightly higher than the known boiling pointof the new liquid, as the actual boiling point may be higher dependingon the extent and the type of contamination and the physical nature ofthe contaminant.

Most of the functions of the auto-repeating fluid distillation apparatus1 in this application are the same as for the auto-repeating fluiddistillation apparatus 1 installed in the recycling object cleaningapparatus 170 illustrated in FIG. 1 except that two set pointtemperatures are set up in the Computer Board (82) and that the VacuumPump VP 79 is not activated since both set points are lower than 200° C.Within each distillation cycle, the temperature at the HeaterThermo-couple 69 is kept at the first set up point of 110° C. until thepre-determined period of time (e.g. 10 minutes) after the evaporation atthe first set point has been completed. During this time, the water onlyis distilled and the 3-way Switch Valve 126 is positioned to send thewater to the Container No.1 132. (Note: If the Level Sensor LS3 129detects full level before the evaporation of water has been completed,the Heater (2) is terminated and an error message is shown in the LCDDisplay 81 urging operator to replace or empty the Container No. 1 132and press Start/Stop button on the Control Panel 80 to resume theoperation.

The set point is then automatically changed to the second set point of200° C. and at the same time, the Solenoid Valve SL9 102 is opened andthe Air Cylinder 127 shifts the 3-way Switch Valve 126 to the positionto direct the product flow to the Container No.2 133. As the temperatureinside the Distillation chamber 62 rises above 180° C., the EthyleneGlycol starts flowing out from the Outlet Tube 135 into the ContainerNo. 2 133.

Before the start of the next auto-repeat cycle, the Solenoid valve SV9102 is closed and the 3-way valve 125 is returned to the originalposition.

The auto-repeating cycles may continue until the set number of cycleshave been completed or the auto-repeating cycles are earlier terminateddue to error condition. If the Storage Tank 140 becomes empty before thecompletion of the set number of cycles, the self diagnostic program willdetect it and stop the operation with “Empty Tank” error message, eventhough it is not really an error condition.

All Solenoid Valves shown in the above examples are intrinsically safetype and are the normally closed type and open only when the electricpower is supplied from the Power Control Board 48. In the actual design,however, some may be the normally closed type and some others may be thenormally open type.

Preferably, all pumps 114, 126 and 115, the Vacuum Pump 79, and the AirCylinder 9 are pneumatically operated.

As soon as any one of the Level Sensor LS2 49 for the Debris Container27 or the Level Sensor LS3 129 for the Receiving Tank 132 detects fulllevel, the Computer will stop the operation and shows error message onthe LCD 81 accordingly.

The Debris Container 27, the Receiving Tank 132 and the Duty tank 140are provided with a breather hole 26. It is preferable to drain debriswhile it is hot and in liquid form since when cold the debris typicallyis a thick material like grease.

The use of the Differential Pressure Sensor as the Level Sensor LV1 8 isunique. Because of the fact the pressure inside the Distillation chamber62 will vary due to fluctuation of evaporation speed and function of thevacuum pump 79, the Level Sensor LS1 8 is the differential pressure typehaving two sensor ports of which both are connected to inside of theDistillation chamber 62. When the fluid level reaches one tube and asmall pressure is created, the pressure difference between two tubes isinterpreted as “full level”.

The pre-determined temperature used for indication of evaporation maynot be a fixed value such as 55.C. The following parameter table (orformula set out below) is used to set the temperature to indicate activeevaporation. Set Point Temperature (=S° ) Evaporation IndicatorTemperature (=T° )  50° C. to 100° C. 50° C. 101° C. to 150° C. 60° C.151° C. to 200° C. 70° C. 201° C. to 250° C. 80° C.

Formula:T=0.25S+20

It should be appreciated that: (a) the Agitation Cycle may beselectively turned off, if the fluid to be distilled is highlyevaporative, (b) the Vacuum Distillation feature may be turned off, ifthe fluid to be distilled has relatively low boiling point and thevacuum distillation is not required.

The minimum number of the auto-repeating cycle is one (1) and themaximum number may be pre-set only at the factory. This adjustment isnot available to the operator.

The maximum set point temperature is preferably pre-set only at thefactory and thus this adjustment is not available to the operator.

If certain error conditions makes it necessary to manually drain thefluid remaining in the distillation chamber 62, the solenoid valve SV354 may be activated by pressing certain two of the buttons on theControl Panel 80 simultaneously for the pre-determined period of time(e.g. 5 seconds) only while such error condition exists.

In order to activate more than one solenoid valves simultaneously, thePower Control Board 48 inside the Explosion Proof Tube 31 is designed tohave multiple intrinsically safe outputs. The Sealing Fittings 340, theSealing Connectors 30 and other connectors, fittings, etc used in theAuto-repeating recycler 1 are all certified type for use in hazardouslocation as required.

In the embodiment of the recycler described above, the vacuum pump 79 isturned on during the distillation process regardless of the set pointtemperature used. Most of the common fluids to be distilled have theboiling point lower than 200° C. which is the maximum set pointtemperature we want to use for this equipment. It is possible that thevacuum pump could be turned on only when the set point the operator setup is over the pre-determined value (e.g. 150° C.). This will preventthe unnecessary use of the vacuum pump and will greatly prolong the lifeof the vacuum pump.

In the embodiment described above, the set point may be manually set upin the Computer Board 81 by the operator before starting thedistillation process. The operator does not always know the boilingpoint of the contaminated liquid to be distilled. Furthermore, theboiling point also changes depending on the type and extent of thecontamination. Some contaminants such as oil, grease, etc. tend toincrease the boiling point greatly. Therefore, it may be desirable tohave automatic set-up of the maximum boiling point. This may be easilyachieved by first finding the temperature of the condenser Thermo-couple(68) at which the evaporation started. Then set up the temperature whichis higher than the temperature detected by the pre-determined value(e.g. 30° C.). This set-up point will remain until the auto-repeatingcycles have been completed.

The set point for each distillation cycle may be altered as required.For example, when the set point is set at 200° C. before the start ofthe first auto-repeat cycles, the first two cycles may be programmed toprovide 170° C. (SP-30° C.). This feature is particularly useful fordistilling of substances.

An aspect of the invention is the provision of an Auto-repeating Fluiddistillation apparatus such as those shown in the above examples whichare designed to be intrinsically safe and explosion proof. To achievethis design objective, all non-intrinsically safe components such as theFan Motor 34, the Power Control Board 48, the EMI Filter 45, theEmergency Power Switch 44, the related wiring, etc. are installed insidethe Explosion Proof Housing 31. The explosion proof housing 31 is shownin FIG. 4 and its components shown in FIG. 4 a.

The Computer Board 82 and all other electrical parts including the ninesolenoid valves from SV1 (56) to SV9 100, the Thermo-couplers 70 and 36,the Level Sensors LS1 8 and LS2 49 and wirings installed outside of theexplosion proof enclosure which consists of the Explosion Proof Housing31, the Terminal Housing 28 and the Metal Conduits 29 and 32. Theconstruction and the design of the Auto-repeating Fluid distillationapparatus 1 satisfy the requirements of CSA, UL, CE and JIS standardsfor the equipment to be used in normal location, the hazardous locationsdesignated as Class 1, Division 2 and Class 1, Division 1. If theAuto-repeating Fluid distillation apparatus 1 is used in the areadesignated as the hazardous location, the Power Plug 60 must be of theexplosion proof type as required for the designation.

Although not a specific requirement necessary to meet the above notedconditions, the Lid Holding Bar Assembly 10 which holds the Lid Assembly9 onto the Distillation chamber 62 in the closed position is designed tofunction as the reliable and sensitive built-in pressure reliedmechanism. In particular, the Lid Holding Bar Assembly 10 has a Pivot 65on one end and the other end is provided with the Lid Clamp 13 of whichthe Latch Wire 15 is hooked to the Clamp Catch 16 in the closedposition. The Lid Assembly 9 can be opened easily for maintenance andservice by just unlocking the Lid Clamp 13. The Lid Holding Bar Assembly10 is made of spring steel and hold the Lid Assembly 9 downward withenough pressure on the Lid Gasket 7 to ensure the leak tight sealing.

Alternative design of the lid holding apparatus with pressure relieffeature is shown in the illustration contained in the text belowrelating to the Interlocking Safety Lid for Recycler. The Outer SafetyCover 66 is hinged and closed over the Lid Assembly 9 so that theoperator is prevented from accidentally touching hot surface of the LidAssembly 9 or from being sprayed with hot fluid if some chemical beingdistilled accidentally explodes during the operation.

When the Outer Cover 66 is closed, the Hook 64 is engaged with thePositive Lock Apparatus (64) in which the automatic release mechanismmay be actuated by an intrinsically safe magnetic solenoid. The detailsare not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, however please refer to the belowinformation and illustrations for the design alternatives. In order toprevent accidental opening of the Outer Cover until the Positive LockApparatus 64 automatically releases the positive lock when thetemperature at the Tank Thermo-couple 36 confirms the pre-determinedsafe value (e.g. 60.C).

This feature is less useful when the Auto-repeating Fluid distillationapparatus (1) is installed inside the Base Cabinet 162 as is shown inFIG. 1. However, it becomes much more important in case theAuto-repeating Fluid distillation apparatus (1) is used independently asseen in FIGS. 2 and 3.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the auto-repeating Fluid distillationapparatus 1 is preferably equipped with a remote transmitter 75. Theremote transmission media may be infra-red, radio wave or laser. Theremote transmitter can communicate with the remote alarm apparatus 190and/or remote fire extinguisher 180. Various error conditions detectedby the self diagnostic programs and/or the self-test mode which arebuilt into the computer board 82 are transmitted to remote signalreceiver 183 or 193 of these remote devices to activate the requiredfunction as described below.

The Remote Alarm Apparatus 190 and the remote fire extinguisher 180require much more electric energy to function than could typically beintrinsically safe and therefore they must be safely installed outsideof immediately surrounding hazardous area of the recycler. By providingthe separate remote devices as herein proposed, the auto-repeating fluiddistillation apparatus 1 which is constructed and duly certified as theexplosion proof equipment for use in even for Class 1, Division 1,hazardous location can offer much improved safety to the operator andthe environment.

Remote Alarm Apparatus 190 consists of the visual alarm signal 192 likea flashing red light, the audible alarm signal 191 like a speaker or abuzzer, Remote Signal Receiver 193, the Power Cord 194 and the PowerPlug 195 is connected to electric power supply.

Depending on the type and the seriousness of the error condition signalstransmitted from the Remote Transmitter 75 of the Auto-repeating Fluiddistillation apparatus 1, variety of different visual alarm signals andaudible alarm sounds may be generated by the Remote Alarm Apparatus 190so that any corrective action can be taken as quickly and safely aspossible. The apparatus could be equipped with a modem which may beconnected to a telephone line or communicated via cellular communicationsuch that presence of error conditions may be transmitted topreprogrammed telephone numbers of individuals in charge of monitoringthe condition of the Auto-repeating Fluid distillation apparatus 1,thereby allowing monitoring of the fluid recycling from remotelocations.

Remote Fire Extinguisher consists of the Fire Extinguisher Tank 181 suchas a CO2 canister, the Spray Head 182, the Release Valve Controller 184,Remote Signal Receiver 183, the Power Cord 185 and the Power Plug 186connected to electric power supply. The fire extinguisher is activatedupon receiving the signal from the Remote Transmitter 75 of theAuto-repeating Fluid distillation apparatus 1.

As part of the invention an electronic control apparatus is providedwhich automatically (and also manually) controls distillation processand related functions, being programmable to perform one or moreautomatically repeated distillation cycles, said electronic controlapparatus comprising at least one microprocessor with memory, a meansfor monitoring temperature at one or more predetermined locations, ameans for receiving signals from analog and digital devices, and sendingelectronic digital or analog signals to electric and electronic devices.

An electric power control apparatus also provides electric power to thefluid distillation apparatus. A means for connecting to an electricalpower source is provided, comprising an electric power cord to receivethe electric power supply. The electronic control apparatus furthercomprises a means for calibrating temperature displayed on said LCD bypressing key switches in predetermined sequences. The electronic controlapparatus may further comprise a self diagnostic program monitor errorconditions and, upon detecting error condition, to performpre-programmed corrective action and to display error messages. Theself-diagnostic program generates audible alarm sound upon detectingerror conditions (i.e. abnormal fluid level, temperature and pressure).

The electronic control apparatus may comprise a test mode which isaccessible by operator to start automatic test sequences and, upondetecting error condition, to display error messages. Error messages maybe displayed in LCD or expressed by means of blinking LED Lights in somemodel.

A data bank apparatus for storing operation history data including acumulative hours of operation, set point used and technical problems maybe provided. The electronic control apparatus may be programmed toenable switching temperature displayed on LCD between Celsius andFahrenheit by pressing key switches in predetermined sequences.

The electronic control apparatus may be programmed: to enable selectionbetween volume measurement units or number of repeated cycles bypressing key switches in predetermined sequences; to enable selection oflanguages displayed on LCD by pressing key switches in predeterminedsequences; to automatically transfer condensate from means forcontaining condensate to another container; to retain status ofdistillation operation in memory so that, after interruption duringoperation, operation may be re-started from where it was interrupted; toenable opening and closing of said drain valve by pressing key switchesin predetermined sequence; to enable turning on and off of saiddistillation chamber filling apparatus by pressing key switches inpredetermined sequence; to enable manual control of each of all saidsolenoid valves by pressing key switches in predetermined sequences; andto enable set-up of more than one set of distillation condition(s)including at least one of boiling temperature, heater power strength,application of vacuum, etc. so that a mixture of two or more fluids withdifferent distillation conditions can be separated through distillationprocess.

The electronic control apparatus further comprises a clock for turningon and off distillation operation according to daily, weekly and monthlyschedule pre-set by operator. The electronic control apparatus mayfurther comprise a built-in memory so that, when distillation operationis interrupted before completion, it could be started from where saidoperation was interrupted.

The electric power control apparatus may further comprise some or all oftransformer, fuse, TRIAC (power control transistor), circuit board,opt-coupler, capacitor, register, and connector. The electronic controlapparatus may be programmed to automatically cause agitation, for apre-determined period of time, the fluid in container which containsfluid to be distilled and then to start said distillation chamberfilling apparatus. Air may be blown into the contaminated fluid for 5seconds before transfer to minimize chance of clogging flow line withdirt. The electronic control apparatus may be programmed to stop saidfilling cycle when predetermined period of time elapses, or said meansfor monitoring detects the predetermined volume, whichever occurs first.

Agitation may be achieved in the invention by introducing flow ofcompressed air for a pre-determined period of time into said containerwhich contains fluid to be distilled. Preferably the distillationchamber filling apparatus further comprises a means for automaticallystopping filling cycle by the function of said electronic controlapparatus when fluid in said distillation chamber reaches predeterminedvolume.

A means for monitoring fluid level may be a combination of a float andmagnetic switch, a pressure sensor, a proximity sensor, or a lightsensor may be provided.

A container to receive debris may be a drawer type container easilyremovable for debris disposal and service. Such a drawer type debriscontainer provided may be easily removed from the unit by opening adebris compartment door. The container to receive debris may be providedwith a means for monitoring level of debris so that distillation ordraining may be terminated when level is full. The means for monitoringlevel of debris in said debris container may be a combination of lightemitter and light sensor or proximity sensor so that debris level isdetected without physical contact.

A means for causing higher pressure in said distillation chamber toimprove draining of debris may be provided. A debris draining apparatusin the distillation chamber further comprises air cylinder or air rotaryactuator-as a means for actuating a said valve. (2 air cylinders may beused.) The valve in said debris draining apparatus may be a springloaded normally closed one way check valve which opens under pressure toallow said debris to drain. The debris draining apparatus may furthercomprise a storage compartment for accommodating said debris containerwithin the unit. The retaining cabinet of the fluid distillationapparatus may comprises a door to said debris storage compartment andsaid means for containing debris can be removed or installed easily byopening said door.

Condensate is automatically supplied to a (receiving) container locatedoutside the recycler through a fluid outlet port. This may be achievedby gravity, vacuum or a pump. A means for connecting fluid flow line toa container containing fluid to be distilled and also to a containerinto which distilled fluid is to be received. (Those containers may belocated onside or outside of the unit.) A means for communicating signalto a means located outside for transferring distilled fluid from onecontainer to another container may be provided for example a transferpump located outside will be activated by air pressure supplied by theunit.

A means for monitoring fluid level in said another container may beprovided in order to halt the transfer upon detecting full level in saidanother container. (Wording needs to be refined.)

Provided may be at least one air inlet port for receiving compressed airsupply and at least one air outlet port to supply air pressure to anexternal apparatus. Provided may be at least one water inlet port forreceiving water supply and at least one water outlet port. A separatesuction pipe which is to be connected to fluid inlet port fortransferring fluid into said distillation chamber may be provided. Theseparate suction pipe may be provided with an air line through which airpressure is supplied to agitate fluid according to predetermined controlsequence.

The distillation chamber may be made of stainless steel or othermaterial covered by rust protective surface. The lid of saiddistillation chamber is made of stainless steel or other materialcovered by rust protective surface. In fact, all components exposed toflow of fluid and vapor of fluid may be made of stainless steel or othermaterial covered by rust protective surface or non-rusting material.Plastic parts may also be used to resist rusting from acidic fluid. Themeans for sealing between said distillation chamber and its lid consistsof at least one of the materials selected from the group consisting ofTeflon, Viton, Silicon, Boron, Neoprene, EPDM, or Ethylene.

A means for relieving pressure in the distillation chamber may compriseat least one spring loaded valve constructed to start opening whenpressure in said distillation chamber or passage connected openly tosaid distillation chamber becomes higher than a predetermined value. Thespring loaded valve in said lid of said distillation chamber may held inclosed position by means of spring bar. The electronic control apparatusfurther comprises a progress monitor program for monitoring processconditions and displaying progress status and/or conditions on LCDpanel, namely the temperature at distillation chamber bottom, vaporoutlet, set point temperature, stage of operation, etc. are displayedalternatively or independently on LCD panel.

A progress monitor program may be provided which displays multiple ofprocess conditions on LCD alternating in predetermined period of time.For example, set-up temperature, actual temperature of distillationchamber, actual temperature of vapor tube are displayed alternativelyfor every 5 seconds on the display.

Shown in FIG. 5 are examples of four applications of the Auto-repeatfluid distillation apparatus. Application No. 1 shows the use of therecycler to distill contaminated fluid in drum A and send it to Drum Bfor storage. Application No. 2 shows the recycler used to distill acontaminated mixture of two liquids in Drum A, separated the liquidsinto Drum B and Drum C. Application No. 3 shows contaminated fluidgathered in drum B, which is distilled and pumped to Drum A. ApplicationNo. 4 shows the use of the recycler with a large Automatic Rotary Objectcleaning apparatus, which continuously removes the contaminated fluidand returns distilled fluid to the washer.

Such Inter Locking Safety Device may be adapted on Safety Cover 1 orLocking Clamp 5 of Tank Lid 2 or both. In electric apparatus, MagneticSolenoid 6 a which works with electric current of less than {fraction(1/16)}^(th) Ampere is used to ensure intrinsic safety. Safety Lid(Outer Lid) 1 is automatically locked during the distillation processand unlocked when it becomes safe to open it. Three methods of actuatingthe automatic locking apparatus are proposed here.

A further aspect of this invention relates to the Lid of thedistillation chamber of fluid recycling equipment, which may be usedwith the auto repeat fluid distillation apparatus of the invention. Ifthe operator of a recycler accidentally opens the lid of distillationchamber during the distillation operation, it is often dangerous due tothe high heat and the exposure to volatile fluid or it's vapor. Thisaspect of the invention is intended to provide measures to prevent theaccidental opening of the lid during the operation. By way of exampleonly, the following is a description of an embodiment of an aspect ofthe invention, namely relating to the Lid of the Distillation chambershown in FIGS. 6A to 6E.

Shown in FIGS. 6D and 6E is a hinged Outer Safety Cover 1 overDistillation chamber Lid 2. A Hook 3 is provided at the front end ofOuter Safety Cover 1 which engages with Catch 4 when the Safety Cover 1is closed and locks Safety Cover 1 in the closed position, thuspreventing Safety Cover from being open during the distillationoperation. After completion of distillation operation and thetemperature drops to safe level, the Catch 4 automatically releases theHook 3 and Safety Cover 1 is unlocked.

As shown in the detailed illustrations 6A to 6C, the Catch 4 may beactuated to be release in different manners. Shown in FIGS. 6A and 6A ithe catch is actuated to be released by magnetic actuation. Shown inFIG. 6A i, the locking arm 418 is biased in an unlocked position. Whenthe temperature reaches a specified elevated “unsafe” value, the coil420 is energized and an armature with permanent magnet 422 pushes thelocking arm 424 into the locking position (shown in FIG. 6A), therebypreventing the opening of the lid. When the temperature goes down to apredetermined safe level, electric power is disconnected from the coil420 and a biasing means pushes the locking arm back to the unlockedposition.

As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6B i the catch is actuated pneumatically. Whenthe temperature reaches the elevated unsafe value and electrical signalis sent to a solenoid valve which actuates the locking mechanism intothe locking position.

As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6C i a wax pellet 426 is used to actuate thelocking mechanism. When the temperature reaches the specified elevatedunsafe value, the wax pellet is fixed within a housing 428 and expandsto actuate the locking arm into the locked position (shown in FIG. 6C).When the temperature goes down to the safe level, the wax pellet shrinks(Shown in FIG. 6C i) thereby allowing the return of the locking arm tothe unlocked position.

An embodiment of a further aspect of the invention is illustrated by wayof example in FIGS. 107A to 7E. This aspect of the invention relates toan innovative design of a distillation chamber which may be used with anauto repeat fluid distillation apparatus of this invention asdistillation chamber such as tank 62 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. The designof a distillation chamber 62 shown in FIGS. 7A to 7E enables easyremoval of the solid debris without using a liner bag. Under thecircumstances, this aspect of the invention provides an innovativedesign of the distillation chamber, which will enable easy removal ofthe solid debris without using liner bag. This aspect of the inventionproposing a design of a distillation chamber, is illustrated by way ofexample in FIGS. 7A to 7E, having a tapered bottom section. To assisteasy removal of the solid debris, the entire inside surface of thedistillation chamber shown in FIGS. 7A to 7E or at least the taperedsection 662 is finished with a coating which minimizes adhesion. Suchfinish may include but is not limited to Teflon coating, anodizedaluminum, or porcelain over steel, etc. A disposable handle 664 which isdesigned to be standing at rest on the bottom of the tank is placed atthe bottom of the distillation chamber before start of distillationchamber as shown in FIGS. 7C to 7E. A heater unit 680 is positionedbelow the bottom of the tank to activate the distillation.

After completion of the distillation of contaminated fluid 660, as shownin FIGS. 7C to 7E, the solid debris 666 will have adhered to the handleand the handle may be easily removed by lifting the disposal handle asshown in FIG. 7E. The disposal handle may be made of steel or otherinexpensive material and is disposed together with the solid debris. Thelow friction surface finish and the tapered bottom design allow thesolid debris to detach easily from the distillation chamber

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention a further improveddistillation chamber 62′ is provided, shown by example in FIG. 8.Commonly, distillation chambers used in fluid distillation apparatus arecomprised of stainless steel in order to enhance the tank's chemicalresistance. Typically the tank is a double shelled assembly with aninner stainless steel tank and outer tank. Typically, the cavity betweenthe double shell tanks is filled with thermal oil which requiresperiodic replacement due to the thermal oil gradually loosing its heatconductivity and thereby lead to explosion. Replacement of the thermaloil tends to be cumbersome and the disposition of the used thermal oilis difficult and expensive. Typically the inner tank and the outer tankare not completely sealed to enable oil replacement and also to allowfor the heat expansion of the oil. This also poses problem of the oilleakage possibility during transportation.

As shown in FIG. 8 by way of example, in accordance with an aspect ofthe invention provided is a unique construction of the distillationchamber assembly of which the inner tank 760 is comprised of stainlesssteel, yet eliminates all the disadvantages of the typical design whichutilize thermal oil as explained above. In accordance with an aspect ofthe invention, as shown in FIG. 8, the inner tank is made of stainlesssteel and the outer tank 762 is made of mild steel or stainless steel.Both tanks are welded together. The cavity between two tanks is filledwith a special heat conductive material 766 which is not any kind of oiland then the small filler port 780 is completely sealed by welding. TheHeater Assembly which is made of steel is welded to the bottom of theOuter Tank. Even though stainless steel has very poor heat conductivity,the inside surface of the stainless steel tank is evenly heated due tothe heat conductive material inserted between the tanks. A heater unit880 is positioned below the tank to actuate the distillation.

An object cleaning apparatus (or object cleaning apparatus) such as theone shown in FIG. 1 forms a further aspect of the invention. Preferablythe object cleaning apparatus is modular in construction and includes abuilt-in fluid distillation apparatus. Ideally, the fluid distillationapparatus is an easily removable modular unit. A cleaning sink having atleast one opening at bottom, a base cabinet having at least one opening,a duty cycle fluid container for holding fluid used for cleaningobject(s), a clean fluid container for holding distilled fluid, a meansfor cleaning object(s) comprising at least a brush, a spigot, a meansfor applying fluid onto object(s) or fluid flow line may be provided. Ameans for controlling fluid flow to said means for cleaning object(s), ameans for transferring distilled fluid to duty cycle fluid container,such as for example a pump means, and means for turning on and off saidpump means may be provided. A venturi may be used for this purpose. Ameans for transferring fluid from duty cycle fluid container to saidmeans for cleaning object(s), a fluid flow line between said duty cyclecontainer and fluid inlet port of said fluid distillation apparatus anda fluid flow line between said clean fluid container and fluid outletport of said fluid distillation apparatus.

The object cleaning apparatus may include the following features: It mayuse a sink made of stainless steel or other material covered by rustprotective surface. Its cabinet may be made of stainless steel or othermaterial covered by rust protective surface. The duty cycle fluidcontainer is made of stainless steel or other material covered by rustprotective surface. The duty cycle fluid container or said clean fluidcontainer, or both further comprises a cone shaped bottom deeper towardscenter.

The clean fluid container may further comprise a cone shaped bottomdeeper towards center. The duty cycle fluid container or said cleanfluid container, or both are made of stainless steel or other materialcovered by rust protective surface. A lid may be provided to cover thecleaning sink. The lid is made of stainless steel or other materialcovered by rust protective surface. The lid may be installed to the saidsink by way of hinge means. At least one lid stay with a fusible link isprovided for enabling said lid to be supported in open position.Preferably, one or two spring loaded Lid Stays are used so that the lidwill automatically close when heat from fire melts the fusible link ofthe Lid Stay. The clean fluid container is constructed to withstandvacuum applied during distillation under vacuum. A total of three pumpmeans may be employed, one for filling the clean fluid container, onefor transferring distilled fluid from said clean fluid container to saidduty cycle fluid container and one for transferring fluid from dutycycle fluid container to said means of cleaning object(s). The dutycycle fluid container, or said clean fluid container, or both isprovided with a means for monitoring fluid level therein.

The fluid distillation apparatus (or fluid distillation apparatus) usedwith the object cleaning apparatus (object cleaning apparatus) may beinstalled inside said base cabinet so as to enable easy removal andre-installation. Quick coupler and connectors may be used for all fluidlines and airlines connection between recycler and object cleaningapparatus.

The fluid distillation apparatus is installed so that removal of saidfluid distillation apparatus from said object-cleaning apparatus doesnot disable object-cleaning function. The duty cycle fluid container maybe installed directly under said opening at bottom of sink. A door ordoors of the said base cabinet may be removed and reinstalled easily.The duty cycle fluid container and said clean fluid container areconstructed to be one container with a divider separating twocompartments. The duty cycle fluid container is placed directly abovesaid clean fluid container so that the bottom of said duty cycle fluidcontainer functions as a lid for said clean fluid container. The set ofduty cycle fluid container and clean fluid container may be installedinside said base cabinet so as to enable easy removal andre-installation.

With respect to the object cleaning instruments the brush is constructedto allow flow of fluid through its handle and bristles. Means forcontrolling fluid flow comprises at least one valve with handle forcontrolling fluid flow to spigot and/or brush. For example, ball valveswithin the handle control flow to the brush and to spigot independently.The duty cycle fluid container may be provided with a visible means ofindicating fluid level in duty cycle fluid container. The fluidcontainer may be provided with a visible means of indicating fluid levelin clean fluid container. Means for transferring fluid from duty cyclecontainer to said means for cleaning object(s) may comprisepneumatically or electrically driven pump(s). A timer may be provided toshut off the supply of fluid to the spigot and/or brush afterpre-determined period of time. For example, current model has max. 15minutes timer. A foot pedal may be provided to turn on and off thesupply of fluid to the spigot and/or brush as desired. The opening atthe bottom of sink has fluid flow communication with said duty cyclefluid container. A strainer or a screen filter or both are provided insaid opening at bottom of sink. The strainer or screen filter or bothare easily removable for service and maintenance. A fluid heatingapparatus may be provided for heating fluid in controlled manor toimprove cleaning results. The fluid heating apparatus may comprise atleast one digital control device and at least a means for monitoringtemperature. A fume extraction apparatus for extracting fume of fluidmay be provided and preferably the fume extraction apparatus furthercomprises a fan driven by electric motor, pneumatic venturi, orcombination of both.

Preferably the flow of fluid for cleaning object(s) is automaticallyturned on and off by the function of motion sensors, heat sensors,proximity sensors or pressure sensors or a combination thereof.

The object cleaning apparatus may have a sink which further comprises anautomatic object cleaning apparatus controlled by at least onemicroprocessor for controlling automatic cleaning functions. Theautomatic object cleaning apparatus further comprises a means oftransporting objects within said sink automatically in predeterminedmovement. The automatic object cleaning apparatus may further comprise ameans for dividing the sink to more than one section, each sectionhaving at least one passage through which to receive a flow of fluid andat least one passage through which to let out a flow of fluid. Theautomatic object cleaning apparatus further comprises an ultrasoniccleaning apparatus. The automatic object cleaning apparatus may furthercomprise a means for heating fluid to improve cleaning. The automaticobject cleaning apparatus may further comprise a means for dryingobjects which have been cleaned. The automatic object cleaning apparatusincludes the following functions cleaning, rinsing, moving, and dryingof objects not necessarily in the herein described sequences.

A further embodiment of an automatic object cleaning apparatus (alsoreferred to a object cleaning apparatus) with a built-in fluiddistillation apparatus comprises (in modular construction), a fluiddistillation apparatus as described above attached as an easilyremovable modular unit; a cleaning chamber for holding objects to becleaned, having at least one opening through which said objects aremoved into and out of said cleaning chamber, a means for closing (andopening) said opening comprising at least one door, a means for movingsaid objects within said cleaning chamber in horizontal, vertical,rotational direction in predetermined manner (and for predeterminedlength of time), a means for automatically cleaning objects inside saidcleaning chamber by forcing movement of either one or both of saidobjects or fluid which is heated or not heated, (this covers spraying,soaking, agitating, tumbling, vibrating or combination thereof, throughpump, ultrasonic, shaking, etc.); a duty cycle fluid container forcontaining fluid used for cleaning object(s); a means for transferringsaid fluid from said duty cycle fluid container to said means forautomatically cleaning objects, a clean fluid container for holdingdistilled fluid; a means for transferring distilled fluid from saidclean fluid container to said duty cycle fluid container, a fluid flowline between said duty cycle container and fluid inlet port of saidfluid distillation apparatus; a fluid flow line between said clean fluidcontainer and fluid outlet port of said fluid distillation apparatus, ameans for controlling automatic cleaning and related functionscomprising at least one electric or electronic control device.

The object cleaning apparatus may include the following features: Thechamber is made of stainless steel or other material covered by rustprotective surface. The door of cleaning chamber is made of stainlesssteel or other material covered by rust protective surface.

The door is attached to said cleaning chamber by hinge means. Thecleaning chamber further comprises a means for holding said doorsecurely in closed or open position.

The cleaning chamber further comprises a means for locking said doorsecurely in closed position. The duty cycle fluid container is made ofstainless steel or other material covered by rust protective surface.The duty cycle fluid container comprises an integral part of saidcleaning chamber.

The duty cycle fluid container or said clean fluid container, or bothfurther comprises at least one opening at bottom for draining saidfluid. The opening at bottom is provided with a means for opening andclosing said opening. The duty cycle fluid container or said clean fluidcontainer, or both further comprises a taper shaped bottom deepertowards said drain opening. The duty cycle fluid container or said cleanfluid container, or both is made of stainless steel or other materialcovered by rust protective surface. The clean fluid container isconstructed to withstand vacuum applied during distillation undervacuum. The duty cycle fluid container, or said clean fluid container,or both is provided with a means for monitoring fluid level therein. Themeans for automatically cleaning objects comprises a means for applyingultrasonic vibration to said fluid while holding said object under saidfluid. The means for applying ultrasonic vibration further comprises ameans for heating said fluid through controlled methods. The means forautomatically cleaning objects comprises a means for moving said objectin reciprocating motion partly or wholly under said fluid, the means forautomatically cleaning objects further comprises a means for heatingsaid fluid through a controlled methods. The means for automaticallycleaning objects comprises a means for moving said object in horizontalor rotational motion while applying flow of said fluid through multiplespray means. The means for automatically cleaning objects furthercomprises a means for heating said fluid through controlled methods. Themeans for automatically cleaning objects comprises a means for moving ameans for applying flow of said fluid through multiple spray means whilemaintaining said object(s) in fixed position. The means forautomatically cleaning objects further comprises a means for heatingsaid fluid through controlled methods. The means for automaticallycleaning objects further comprises a means for drying said object aftercompletion of automatic cleaning operation. The means for automaticallycleaning objects further comprises a means for automatically loadinginto said cleaning chamber and/or automatically unloading said object(s)out of said cleaning chamber. The means for automatically cleaningobjects further comprises more than one cycle of automatic cleaningand/or drying under different set of conditions including type ofcleaning fluid, temperature used for cleaning or drying, length of time,and/or method of cleaning or drying.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of theforegoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible inthe practice of this invention without departing from the spirit orscope thereof.

The fluid distillation apparatus of the invention includes the followingfeatures:

-   Operation of the apparatus is controlled by Microprocessor-   LCD or LED display for showing messages-   Electric and pneumatic power sources may be utilized to power the    apparatus.-   Automatic repeating cycles with pre-settable distillation cycle    and/or volume.-   Distillation volume can be pre-set to desired total volume by US    Gallons, British Gallons or Litres or number of butches.-   Debris accumulated in the tanks may be automatically drained under    pressure.-   Distillation may be undertaken under atmospheric pressure or in    vacuum conditions.-   Automatic filling of the distillation chamber with contaminated    liquid, by means of vacuum or pump-   Automatic transfer of distilled liquid form receiving Tank to    external container.-   Explosion proof (Class 1, Division 1 or 2) construction.-   All electric circuits outside of the Explosion Proof Enclosures are    intrinsically safe.-   All pneumatically controlled functions actuated by electric solenoid    valves of which electric solenoid portion is accommodated inside of    the explosion proof enclosure and the pneumatic valve portion    outside of the explosion proof enclosure.-   Specially developed pneumatic valve is designed to control fluid    flow. (Air actuated liquid on/off valve).-   Air cylinder actuated drain ball valve is controlled by solenoid    valve.-   An explosion proof enclosure with cooling fins is provided to    increase cooling capacity.-   The explosion proof enclosure is made of heat conductive material,    aluminum, etc.-   The explosion proof enclosure houses non-explosion proof Fan Motor,    Power Control Board, etc.-   A condenser (air-cooled or water-cooled) overheat detection (75°    C.).-   When a safety cover is open detection is achieved.-   If so pre-set, set point temperature automatically increases upon    detecting decrease of vacuum during the distillation.-   Air pressure monitoring apparatus turns off heater when air pressure    falls below preset value, and shows error message “Low Pressure”.-   Selectable languages for display—English, Dutch, French, Spanish,    etc.-   An Adjustable Set point temperature is provided.-   Adjustable Multiple Set point temperatures for output separation.-   Self-diagnostic function with error message display is provided.-   Auto Test function on demand with test result display is provided.-   Temperature is selectable between ° F. and ° C.-   Built-in software for temperature calibration is provided.-   Fluid inlet pipe inside the distillation chamber is placed so that    inlet flow of dirty fluid will wash out the deposit of debris at the    bottom of Tank during filling cycle.-   VOC Leak Detector (Optional) automatically stops operation upon    detecting fluid vapor leakage.-   Auto Fume Extraction when VOC detected and/or Vacuum Process (and/or    Tank Lid is opened.)-   Fast Pressure Relief to fume extraction apparatus.-   Vacuum used for distillation cycle is supplied by electric or    pneumatic vacuum generator or inline pump means.-   Safety lock on Inner and/or outer lid of distillation chamber    automatically locks the lid during the operation and allow the lid    to be opened only when the condition is safe for the lid to be    opened for maintenance or service.-   Dual lid (Distillation chamber lid and Outer Safety cover) for added    safety. Swivel casters with brake for mobility. Quick couplers for    both fluid inlet and outlet for easy connection to the other    equipment such as object cleaning apparatus, brake washer, printing    press, dry cleaning equipment, metal cutting machine, etc. Maximum    safety timer stops heater if no vapor produced in the pre-set time    period.-   Stop operation, shows error messages in display, and/or activate    alarm apparatus with visible and/or audible warning, under the    following conditions: temperature at condenser exceeds pre-set    value;-   Temperature at heater unit exceeds pre-set value; temperature at    vapor outlet tube does not reach pre-set value within pre-set time    period meaning no vapor generation detected within pre-set time    period (empty tank detection apparatus); temperature at other    monitoring locations exceeds pre-set value; pressure in Distillation    chamber exceeds pre-set value; pressure in Distillation chamber does    not go down during draining cycle; pressure in Distillation chamber    does not reach pre-set value during draining cycle; pressure in    Receiving tank does not reach pre-set value during transfer cycle;    pressure in air supply exceeds pre-set value; pressure in air supply    is below pre-set value; vacuum pressure does not reach pre-set value    prior to filling cycle. (Defective Vacuum Generation apparatus    failure, Vacuum control valve failure, blocked vacuum passage,    vacuum leakage in the apparatus, etc; vacuum pressure does not go    down to pre-set value during filling cycle; vacuum pressure does not    reach pre-set value during distillation cycle. (Drain valve does not    open or drain passage is blocked.); vacuum pressure goes below    pre-set value during distillation cycle; distillation is not    completed within pre-set period of time. (Safety timer); VOC at    monitoring locations exceeds pre-set value; electric power supply is    outside of the pre-set voltage value; electric power supply has been    interrupted during the operation; compressed air supply has been    interrupted during the operation; fluid level in distillation    chamber exceeds pre-set value; fluid level in receiving tank exceeds    pre-set value; fluid level in distillation chamber does not reach    pre-set value during the filling cycle; open circuit detected in    Heater Circuit; open circuit detected in cooling apparatus Circuit;    open circuit detected in Temperature monitoring apparatus Circuit;    open circuit detected in Temperature monitoring apparatus Circuit;    open circuit detected in pressure monitoring apparatus Circuit; open    circuit detected in operation control apparatus Circuit; safety    cover opened during operation.-   Provided may be an outer cover (Safety Cover) to ensure maximum    surface below 70° C.

Weight of unit may be balanced to attain tip proof to ±15° at 360.Agitation of dirty fluid before transfer to Distillation chamber isachieved by introducing exhaust air of filling pump, by introducing airbefore and/or during transfer, and/or by mechanical agitation.

-   Provided may be remote diagnostic and/or control apparatus via    internet/telephone line.-   Provided is a non-explosion proof cooling fan motor and other    electric device housed in explosion proof enclosure. Provided is a    stainless Steel Distillation chamber with 1^(st) layer of Nickel    Aluminum sprayed on to the bottom for adhesion and 2^(nd) layer of    Aluminum sprayed on for heat conductivity and weldability-   A vacuum required for filling and/or distillation is provided by Air    Operated Pump mounted in-line in fluid outlet flow passage.

The invention further provides:

-   The ability to set the number of distillation cycles to be    performed.-   A Safety Max. Timer.-   The Apparatus alerts when tanks are empty-   Pre-heated Pump Fill or Vacuum Filling-   Distillation under Vacuum-   Waste may be drained by pressure-   Sequence is controlled by computer-   Power Interruption control and detection-   Use of direct heating system-   Structured to meet UL2208, Explosion Proof C1, D1/C1, D2-   Explosion Proof Enclosure, enclosing std. Fan Motor, Control, Water    Control Valve, Solenoid.-   Computer control outside connected by intrinsically Safe Wires-   LCD and LED display-   Plug (Std.) above 18″ high.-   Receiving Drum 10″ long inside.-   Floating Pressure Relief Valve Port-   May be air-cooled or water-cooled-   Automatic boiling point detection apparatus-   Includes an outer cover to ensure maximum surface below 70° C.-   Programmable to provide different set-up point and/or heater power    strength for each auto-repeating cycle.-   Tip proof to ±15°.

1. A fluid distillation apparatus comprising in integral unitizedcombination: a distillation chamber comprising a distillation tank, atank lid, a means for sealing between said distillation tank and saidlid, at least one opening to which a drain passage is connected, atleast one opening through which to introduce the fluid into distillationchamber, and at least one opening through which to let out fluid vapor;a means for holding said tank lid in closed position, a means forheating said distillation tank, comprising at least one electric heaterelement. a means of minimizing heat loss from said distillation chamber,comprising a means of covering said distillation tank with materialwhich is heat resistant and heat insulating, a means for relievingpressure higher than a predetermined value from said distillationchamber and passage connected openly to said distillation chamber, acabinet for enclosing all components, comprising outer panels forcovering exterior surfaces and inner structural members, a means forconnecting with at least one external apparatus or source ofcontaminated fluid and with at least one container to receive distilledfluid, comprising at least one each of a fluid inlet port and a fluidoutlet port, a distillation tank filling system comprising a means fortransferring a contaminated fluid from said external source into saiddistillation tank, a means for converting fluid in said distillationchamber to fluid vapor through heating process, a means for condensingsaid fluid vapor into fluid through cooling process, comprising acondenser, fluid vapor flow line between said distillation chamber andsaid condenser, a means for transferring distilled fluid to a fluidoutlet port, comprising a fluid flow line between said condenser andsaid fluid outlet port, a debris draining system for automaticallydraining debris from said distillation tank, comprising at least onevalve for opening and closing drain passage and a means for actuatingthe said valve. an electronic control system for controllingdistillation process and related functions, comprising at least onemicroprocessor with memory programmable to perform automaticdistillation cycles, an electric power control apparatus for providingand controlling intrinsically safe and non-intrinsically safe electricpower supplies, a means for connecting to electric power source,comprising an electric power cord to receive electric power supply, ameans for grounding to earth, comprising at least one electricallyconductive cord or wire within or outside of said power cord.
 2. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 further comprising a meansfor connecting to compressed air supply.
 3. A fluid distillationapparatus as recited in claim 1 further comprising a means forconnecting to water supply.
 4. A fluid distillation apparatus as recitedin claim 1 comprising a compact design, having preferred size notexceeding 45 inches in height, 24 inches in width and 36 inches inlength, so that said fluid distillation apparatus may be housed insideof the cabinet of typical automatic or manual object cleaning apparatus.5. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 which isprogrammed to automatically repeat distillation cycles according topre-selected number of cycles or volume of fluid to be distilled.
 6. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 further equipped witha fluid separation system comprising two or more fluid outlets, a meansfor directing said distilled fluid to a selected fluid outlet port,computer programs capable of controlling distillation and separationprocess so that a contaminated mixture of two or more fluids can beseparated through the distillation process into separate receivingcontainers according to the difference of boiling point and/or heaterpower requirement.
 7. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim6 wherein said means for directing said distilled fluid comprises atleast one valve with one fluid inlet and more than two fluid outlets anda means of pneumatically or electrically actuating said valve.
 8. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 further comprises ameans of detecting level of fluid in at least one of said receivingcontainers.
 9. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1wherein said distillation chamber is constructed to withstand a highlevel of vacuum.
 10. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim1 wherein said means of sealing between said distillation tank and saidtank lid is made of Boron base material.
 11. A fluid distillationapparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said distillation tank employsdirect heating system comprising an electric heater element encapsulatedin explosion proof housing which is directly attached to saiddistillation tank or forms the bottom portion of said distillation tank.12. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein saiddistillation tank further comprises a bottom which is sloped toward thecenter for improved draining of debris.
 13. A distillation chamber foruse in a fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein saiddistillation tank further comprises a inner bottom tapered section andhaving an inner surface coated with Teflon to improve draining ofdebris.
 14. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 whereinsaid distillation tank is provided with a means of detecting level offluid in said distillation chamber.
 15. A fluid distillation apparatusas recited in claim 14 wherein said means of detecting level of fluidcomprises a combination of a float with a up-right stem, a magnetattached to said stem and a lead switch.
 16. A fluid distillationapparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said means for holding lidcomprises a combination of a lid holder member with a built-in springfunction, a lid clamp attached to one end of said lid holder member, aclamp catch, and a hinge means attached to another end of said lidholder member.
 17. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1wherein said distillation tank is provided with a tank cooling systemcomprising a means of cooling said distillation tank pneumatically or bywater.
 18. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 whereinsaid distillation chamber further comprises an outer safety cover oversaid tank lid to prevent operator from contacting said tank lid.
 19. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 17 wherein said safetycover is provided with an automatic lock mechanism which prevents thesafety cover from being opened until temperature of distillation chamberdrops below a predetermined level.
 20. A fluid distillation apparatus asrecited in claim 1 wherein said means for connecting with externalapparatus further comprises at least one pneumatic connecter.
 21. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 20 wherein said meansfor connecting with external apparatus further comprises at least oneeach of quick fluid coupler and quick air connecter to enable fast andeasy connection and disconnection with said external apparatus.
 22. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein saiddistillation tank filling system comprises a fluid flow line betweensaid distillation chamber and said fluid inlet port, an electrically orpneumatically driven pump means or a means for generating vacuum in saiddistillation chamber and openly communicated passages.
 23. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said distillationtank filling system further comprises a means for agitating saidcontaminated fluid prior to filling said distillation tank.
 24. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein the method ofdistilling a contaminated fluid comprises the steps of: agitating acontaminated fluid in container holding said fluid to be distilled,transferring the contaminated fluid to distillation chamber means,distilling the contaminated fluid in the distillation chamber means,cooling the distillation chamber means to a temperature appropriate fordraining the debris distilled out of the fluid draining said debris intoa debris container, repeating the above sequence of steps for pre-setnumber of times or pre-set volume of fluid, or until an abnormality isdetected by a built-in self diagnostic system.
 25. A method of recyclinga contaminated fluid as recited in claim 24 further comprises theinitial step of automatically checking conditions of key components andtheir functions.
 26. A method of recycling a contaminated fluid asrecited in claim 25 further comprising a step in which the distilledfluid is automatically transferred from said receiving tank to said dutytank immediately after completion of the last tank filling cycle.
 27. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein a means forgenerating vacuum is automatically activated to create vacuum in thedistillation chamber only when evaporation conditions indicate within apre-determined period of time the requirement of vacuum to reduce theboiling point of the fluid being distilled.
 28. A fluid distillationapparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein at least one pneumatic apparatusis controlled by an electrically actuated solenoid valve.
 29. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 28 wherein said electricallyactuated solenoid valve is actuated by intrinsically safe electric powerand is located outside of the explosion proof housings.
 30. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in, claim 1 wherein said debrisdraining system further comprises a means for applying air pressure of apredetermined level to improve draining of said debris.
 31. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said debrisdraining system further comprises a means for containing said debris,comprising at least one container preferably installed inside of saidcabinet to receive debris drained from said distillation chamber.
 32. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 further comprises atleast one explosion proof or flame proof enclosure for housing some ofelectric components thereof.
 33. A fluid distillation apparatus asrecited in claim 1 further comprises a means for limiting emission andimmunity of electro magnetic interference within specific values underEuropean standards and North American standards.
 34. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said electroniccontrol system further comprises a intrinsically safe computer board,with built-in control switches or with a separate key pad, locatedoutside of explosion proof housings as described herein.
 35. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said electroniccontrol system further comprises a computer board located inside of anexplosion proof housing and a separate intrinsically safe key padlocated outside of said explosion proof housing.
 36. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said electroniccontrol system further comprises said computer board containing one ormore microprocessors and one or more LCD and LED display capable ofdisplaying messages
 37. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited inclaim 1 wherein said electronic control system further compriseselectronic calendar timer to enable scheduled distillation operation.38. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 36 wherein saidelectronic control system is programmed to allow the operator to selectsome of distillation parameters such as language of display, temperaturedisplayed in Centigrade (° C.) or Fahrenheit (° F.), one or more maximumboiling temperatures, strength of heater power for each boilingtemperature set-up, number of automatically repeated cycles, agitationcycle turned on or off, vacuum distillation turned on or off, desiredstarting date and time.
 39. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited inclaim 36 wherein said electronic control system is programmed to allowfactory personnel to access a hidden menus by pressing keys inpredetermined sequence for setting up some of distillation parameterssuch as a range of boiling temperature, a range of number ofautomatically repeated cycles.
 40. A fluid distillation apparatus asrecited in claim 36 wherein said electronic control system furthercomprises a progress monitor program for monitoring process conditionsand displaying progress status and conditions.
 41. A fluid distillationapparatus as recited in claim 36 wherein said electronic control systemfurther comprises a self diagnostic program to monitor error conditionsand, upon detecting error condition, to perform pre-programmedcorrective action and to display error messages.
 42. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 36 wherein saidself-diagnostic program generates audible alarm sound upon detectingerror condition.
 43. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim36 wherein said electronic control system is programmed to retain statusof distillation operation in memory so that, after interruption duringoperation, operation may be re-started from where it was interrupted.44. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein saidelectronic control system is programmed to automatically reduce heaterpower by pre-determined rate and timing when temperature at saiddistillation tank reaches close to set point temperature.
 45. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said electroniccontrol system is programmed to enable manual control of said solenoidvalves by pressing key switches in predetermined sequences.
 46. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein a battery isprovided to maintain in memory daily, weekly or monthly operationschedule pre-set by operator.
 47. A fluid distillation apparatus asrecited in claim 1 further comprising at least one of temperaturesensor, fluid level sensor, pressure sensor, light sensor and/ormagnetic sensor.
 48. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim1 further comprising an explosion proof housing containing at least oneeach of a heater element, a thermostat and a connector cable.
 49. Afluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein all outletsof the explosion proof housing are provided with a sealed connectionmeans, which functions as fume and flame barrier.
 50. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein two or moreexplosion proof housings each containing electric devices are connectedby means of explosion proof connector(s) and fitting(s).
 51. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said electric powercontrol apparatus contains at least one each of intrinsically safe fuse,fuse for heater circuit, and preferably fuse for fan motor circuit. 52.A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said meansfor condensing is a combination of a condenser and water,
 53. A fluiddistillation apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said means forcondensing is a combination of a condenser and a fan powered by a fanmotor,
 54. A fluid distillation apparatus as recited in claim 53 whereinsaid fan motor, electric power control apparatus, and a means forfiltering electric magnetic interference are housed within saidexplosion proof housing.
 55. A distillation apparatus as recited inclaim 1 further comprising a means for connecting at least one airflowline through which compressed air is transferred from or to at least oneexternal apparatus.
 56. An automatic object cleaning apparatus with abuilt-in fluid distillation apparatus comprising in modularconstruction, the fluid distillation apparatus of claim 1; a cleaningsink means for cleaning objects to be cleaned, having at least oneopening through which said objects are moved into and out of saidcleaning sink means; a means for closing (and opening) said openingcomprising at least one door, a means for moving said objects withinsaid cleaning chamber in horizontal, vertical, rotational direction inpredetermined manner (and for predetermined length of time); a means formanually cleaning objects inside said cleaning sink by means of a brushor a flexible spigot, a duty cycle fluid container for containing fluidused for cleaning object(s); a means for transferring said fluid fromsaid duty cycle fluid container to said means for manually cleaningobjects; a clean fluid container for holding distilled fluid; a meansfor transferring distilled fluid from said clean fluid container to saidduty cycle fluid container; a fluid flow line between said duty cyclecontainer and fluid inlet port of said fluid distillation apparatus; afluid flow line between said clean fluid container and fluid outlet portof said fluid distillation apparatus; and a means for controllingcleaning and related functions comprising a timer activated air valve orfoot pedal activated air valve.
 57. An automatic object cleaningapparatus with a built-in fluid distillation apparatus comprising inmodular construction, the fluid distillation apparatus of claim 1; acleaning chamber for holding objects to be cleaned, having at least oneopening through which said objects are moved into and out of saidcleaning chamber; a means for closing (and opening) said openingcomprising at least one door, a means for moving said objects withinsaid cleaning chamber in horizontal, vertical, rotational direction inpredetermined manner (and for predetermined length of time); a means forautomatically cleaning objects inside said cleaning chamber by forcingmovement of either one or both of said objects or fluid which is heatedor not heated; a duty cycle fluid container for containing fluid usedfor cleaning object(s); a means for transferring said fluid from saidduty cycle fluid container to said means for automatically cleaningobjects; a clean fluid container for holding distilled fluid; a meansfor transferring distilled fluid from said clean fluid container to saidduty cycle fluid container; a fluid flow line between said duty cyclecontainer and fluid inlet port of said fluid distillation apparatus; afluid flow line between said clean fluid container and fluid outlet portof said fluid distillation apparatus; and a means for controllingautomatic cleaning and related functions comprising at least oneelectric or electronic control device.